Stress and adversity are universal among patients and families. Some stress is manageable, while other stress requires support from community-based programs. Once your practice has identified a family in need of support, you should be prepared to address those needs in an efficient, effective manner. The following list provides suggestions for the continuum of expertise in providing families with information to help them address and overcome their stressors.
Practice Highlights
- 1st Five Healthy Mental Development Initiative is an Iowa-based program that closes the loop between medical providers and community resources through developmental support specialists. Standardized surveillance and screening for social and emotional development concerns, family stress and parental depression is conducted during well-child checkups to identify children needing a referral. A 1st Five Development Support Specialist receives referral from provider and contacts the families, makes referrals and coordinates resources within the community network. Following the completion of referrals, 1st Five follows back up with the pediatrician and closes the feedback loop.
- National Child Traumatic Stress Network: Parent and Caregiver Resources
- American Academy of Pediatrics Trauma Guide for Families
